![Quantcast](http://pixel.quantserve.com/pixel/p-GS-HF4BKvzCmv.gif)
![Saweetie talks feeling Insecure as an artist](https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81MTYzNzIxMi9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc0MTU5ODgxMH0.vf53-hKhqPcNxVJjOvcGgtDTqcVqoP1Euu87Z-oE8g0/img.jpg?width=1200&height=600&quality=90&coordinates=0%2C333%2C0%2C2299)
Saweetie Gets Vulnerable About Her Career: “I'm A Confident Woman, But I Was A Very Insecure Artist”
Saweetie is no stranger to opening up about things she goes through behind the scenes in her career. She has stated on multiple occasions how she struggles with her mental health, and now she is getting vulnerable about her artistry. The “Richtivities” rapper’s career took off after dropping “Icy Grl” in 2018, and since then, she has dropped many other hits like “My Type” and “Best Friend,” which she collaborated on with Doja Cat and earned a Grammy nomination.
However, her quick ascend left her feeling exposed. After taking some time away from the music industry to get back to her essence and hiring a new team, Saweetie is ready to show up for her fans and prove critics wrong. The Bay area artist spoke to Allure in a candid interview about the reality of what she deals with in her career, her safe space, and what’s next. Here are nine things we learned.
Saweetie on the biggest mistake labels make
“The labels, they always want you to go straight pop, but the reason I came into the music industry is I love to get my thoughts off. My stream of consciousness is in my freestyles. It was just like, ‘I’m releasing it. I have to.’ Before we go into the radio and whatever y'all want to do that's cool, but let me do what I like.”
She continues, “It all started with me rapping in my car. I think that's the biggest mistake labels make these days. They take the artists away from what they're inherently good at — the reasons their fan base fell in love with them. And I think it's unfortunate that sometimes the art gets lost in that transition.”
Saweetie on the sexist advice she received from music executives
“I was told I should twerk more on my Instagram,” she revealed. “I was told that my voice was very boring. I was told that I rapped too monotone and needed more energy. I was told that I needed to share more of my life on the internet.”
“I'm going to twerk when I want to. That's not going to be my marketing. And if that's what you truly love to do, then empower yourself through that. But that's not innate to me. If I get caught at a party or if I'm turning up, okay, cool. But I'm not finna do that because you guys think I should. That's lazy marketing.”
Saweetie on feeling insecure as an artist
“I just feel like nobody was caring about my music,” she said of her team at the time. “To me, music is sacred. It's coming from your spirit. You can't just go finish an album in a week. That’s why it’s taking me so long. That’s why I haven’t dropped an album yet.”
“I don't mean to dampen the mood,” she continued. “But this is, realistically, how my career has been. We were constantly criticized for every drop. I was just very insecure. I'm a confident woman, but I was a very insecure artist.”
Saweetie on how blowing up quickly affected her artistry
“‘Icy Grl’ and ‘My Type’ blew up so quick, I was on the market almost immediately,” she said. “So I didn't have time to develop.”
Saweetie on the criticism about her stage presence when performing
“That's not my strength,” she admitted, “and that's okay because you're supposed to turn your weaknesses into strengths.”
Saweetie on not feeling protected in the music industry
“No, I don’t feel protected,” she said. There’s a heaviness that hovers over us."
She continued, "I'm not the only person. I know that there’s probably other people who feel the same way I feel. Why is it that some people get protected and some people don't?”
Saweetie on "The Single Life" EP drama
“I went to war with no soldiers, there was no ammo. I felt like I was left out to dry by my label and everyone around me. There was no public support. Honestly, I internalized that situation, but I'm used to doing that.”
Saweetie on her safe space
“The shower is my safe space,” she said. “I love taking out a wig or a weave, washing my hair, and really letting the energy off my head. I think that's how I cope. I like to get roses and put them on the floor and stand on them.”
Saweetie on not wanting to give up
“There's been a lot of times these past couple of years where I've given up on myself. Whether people knew about that or not, I just felt myself giving up, and I don't want to do that anymore.”
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for daily love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Feature image by Kevin Mazur/WireImage
London Alexaundria is the contributing editor for xoNecole. She is an alum of Clark Atlanta University, where she majored in Mass Media Arts and has worked in journalism for over ten years. You can follow her on Instagram and TikTok @theselfcarewriter
These Newlyweds Found Love Thanks To A Friend Playing Matchmaker
How We Met is a series where xoNecole talks love and relationships with real-life couples. We learn how they met, how like turned into love, and how they make their love work.
Jason and Elise Robinson’s union is a reminder that kind people still get their happily ever after. The pair had their first date in October of 2021 and tied the knot on June 15, 2024. Both of them have dedicated their lives to celebrating and supporting Black culture so it was only fitting they get married in what's considered the Black Hollywood of America during the Juneteenth celebration weekend. From the florists to Elise and Jason's gown and suit designers to the table signage and so much more, everything was Black-owned. It's no wonder their love for Black culture was the jumping-off point for their love story.
When they met, Jason had just moved to Atlanta for a new job opportunity, and Elise was living happily in her career and had put dating on the backburner. But luckily, a mutual connection saw something in both of them and thanks to a yoga-themed baby shower and a chance text message, they found their forever. Check out their beautiful How We Met story below.
I’ll start with the easiest question. Can you both tell me a little bit about yourself and your background?
Elise: Sure, my name is Elise. I’m actually from Atlanta, GA – not a transplant. I grew up here and left right after college to pursue my career. Now I’ve been back going on eight years, and I’m in my early 40s.
Jason: And I’m Jason. I’m originally from Racine, Wisconsin. I went to school at Florida A&M University, so I am a rattler. I went back to the Midwest for a period of time, in Indianapolis. Now, I’ve been in the Atlanta area for a little over two and a half years.
Jason and Elise Robinson
Photo by FotosbyFola
Wow, that’s nice because Atlanta gets a bad rap when it comes to relationships. So you have to give us the deets. How did you two find each other?
Elise: So I work in TV and I was on-air for a number of years and then transitioned into being a producer and then a manager. As a producer, I’d always have guests on. And there was a woman who came on frequently named Rosalynn (@Rosalynndaniels, often referred to as The Black Martha Stewart), and we connected instantly. Anyway, she got pregnant right before COVID and invited me to a “modern-day yoga baby shower.” I came to support, but was also just curious about that theme.
I had an amazing time. And when it was over a few of us stuck around and convos got personal. She ended up asking me the infamous ‘Are you dating’ question. When I told her no, she decided to set me up. So I should tell you, in both of my only two serious relationships, I was set up – so I was like no.
But she pointed at her husband, who was folding up chairs, and said that another friend set her up with him. Sometimes, it takes people outside of us to see what we need. A few months later, she reached out and said she had family relocating and thought I’d really like him. So she gave him my number, and I reached out with a text. He responded with a call, and that night, we talked for about 2-3 hours. So that’s how we met. I was a little nervous because me and Rosalynn were starting a friendship, and here I was, talking to her family!
Jason: It was new for me too. Remember, I was new to the area, and I had heard so many “stories” about how people have been done wrong in the dating world. Whether it’s by theft or scamming (laughs). Plus, I had just got a new job and wanted to focus on that. But I did want to be able to date someone in a more personal way and see where it led. I felt like who better than someone who I trust to connect me. Rosalynn knows I’m private, about business life, and my personal life is important to me.
So let’s get into your courtship. What was your first date like?
Elise: We had our first convo on a Monday, and he asked me out the next day. I didn’t have any plans, but I still said no. I was just playing hard to get (laughs). But we were talking every day, and he told me he wanted to take me somewhere I’ve never been. And I’m like, you’re in my city! But he sends me three options, and sure enough, two of the places I hadn’t gone to. So, our first date was October 1, 2021, and somebody was 45 minutes late.
Now Jason, why were you 45 minutes late?
Elise: It was me – in my own city. I just got turned around, and the traffic was horrible. I kept calling him and giving him permission to leave. Full transparency: I probably wouldn’t have waited if the shoe was on the other foot. But this was my first sign of what I now know and love the most about him. It’s his patience. When I got there, I was frazzled and everything, but he was just super calm. It ended up being a great first date.
Jason: I remember just waiting and being concerned for her well-being. Because I know how traffic can be, especially when someone is rushing. I was just scrolling through my phone and looking through the menu. It was cool.
Elise and Jason Robinson
Courtesy
That’s beautiful. Now let’s talk about the “what are we” convo? Did you have one of those and if so, who initiated it and how was it?
Elise: I initiated it. Jason was dating me – and still does. But by this time, we had been on a number of dates. We were on our way to a winery, and we had a bit of a drive. So I decided to state my intention. We were just a few weeks in, but we were spending a lot of time together and we are people of a particular age. So I told him, I know Atlanta can be a Black man’s playground. There’s so many beautiful professional women here. But I’m dating with intention. I don’t want to kick it or hang with a good guy even though he’s not my person. I was done with all of that. So I’m “laying down the law” in my eyes, and he didn’t flinch. He let me finish and basically let me know we were on the same page. He was not trying to sow his royal oats.
Jason: Yeah, I was not trying to be Prince Akeem. But also, it was more so about setting a tone and goal for myself. My mama always told me to set my goals. And having a family was always one of mine. I think the biggest thing of it all, was I felt blessed – in terms of moving for work and meeting Elise, now being married. There’s victories being placed in my life.
I love that you both shared that because sometimes I get feedback on these stories and it seems like sometimes we’re afraid to really voice what we desire, no matter what that looks like.
Elise: Yeah, I think sometimes women feel like they don’t want to put pressure on their partner. But it’s not pressure. Look, Jason and I are based in faith, and what is for us is for us. Being upfront and honest is best – and early makes sense. You don’t have to convince someone to be your person.
Jason: I think her sharing those values resonated with me, and hearing her “lay down the law” was fine because I was there, too. I would say to millennial women, don’t be afraid to tell a mate what you want. You never know what that would lead to. Time is a precious commodity. Elise saying that early on showed me that she values both of our time. It showed her heart, character, and integrity, and I was drawn to that and the mature conversation. In the social media world, we don’t have those pointed conversations face-to-face. I would challenge readers to have those conversations in person, and you would get more from that convo than any post or reel. Because you see body language reactions and have deeper communication.
Yeah, I think sometimes women feel like they don’t want to put pressure on their partner. But it’s not pressure. Look, Jason and I are based in faith, and what is for us is for us. Being upfront and honest is best – and early makes sense. You don’t have to convince someone to be your person.
You both have mentioned time, family, and integrity. I’m curious what other core values do you both share?
Elise: Early on, our faith. Not just do you believe in God. It had to be deeper in that. I needed someone who would lead me, our home, and our family. I didn’t want to be in a push-and-pull relationship about prayer, church, or have conversations about being better people. Also, we discussed finances. That doesn’t just mean going to work. We chatted about ownership and what it looks like for us. How do we support each other individually and together? I know I like having my hands in a few different pots, and I needed someone who was supportive of that and likewise.
Jason: My background is that I was raised in the church. My father is a deacon and my mom is a deaconess. They've been married for 55 years. Faith was very important to me and it was crucial that my wife have that relationship as well.
Elise and Jason Robinson
Photo by FotosbyFola
Can we talk about challenges? Big or small, what are some things you had to grow through together?
Elise: I have never lived with anyone – not a roommate, a sister, friend, boyfriend or anything. Now, I’m in my 40s and I'm living with someone. When you’ve been by yourself for so long that was a challenge for both of us. We weren’t pulling each other's hair out but I’m a bit extreme. Things are color-coded in my closet. For me, working in news is chaotic so I want my home to be peaceful and organized.
Jason: I’m a man, and she’s a woman. That dynamic alone adds a flair to it. She wants things a certain way. She’s a Capricorn. But just in terms of how she wants to keep a home was a big adjustment for me. It took time.
On a smaller level, what are some of the things you disagree about day-to-day?
Elise: Cleanliness and systems. Like, he recycles and I do not. But sometimes I just have to decide if it really needs to be a thing or if I can just take care of it.
Jason: This is where my organization takes over (laughs).
What are your love languages? Do you know?
Elise: Jason’s is an act of service which works because I love cooking for him. It doesn’t feel like a chore to me. I love when I’m out, picking up his favorite juice. The other day I saw he needed t-shirts while folding clothes. So I just like doing small things for him that he doesn’t expect. He’s very much that guy that will ask to help so it doesn’t bother me.
Jason: I’d say Elise is all of them, but physical touch would probably be the biggest one. I had to get used to that. She’s taught me it in a number of ways. I remember we actually talked about love languages, and I sent her this song called “More Than Words” by Extreme. That explained to her how I felt.
Finally, can we end with the proposal? Tell us everything!
Jason: It was at a restaurant. And again, I was trying to find somewhere she hadn’t been. Also, I didn’t want to do it on our anniversary because that would have been too obvious. I contacted one of the restaurant’s staff and decided to change up the dessert menu. Each item was something special to us.
Elise: We go on so many date nights, so I just thought it was a regular night. We had finished eating, and I had to go to the bathroom. They had a nice mirror, girl. So I’m in there taking videos and stuff.
Jason: While she’s in the restroom, I’m getting everything in place with the waitress.
Elise: So as I’m reading the menu, I realize it’s telling our story and he eventually proposed. It was so special; I actually had the menu framed! It was so beautiful and thoughtful.
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Feature image by FotosbyFola
Here's How To Enjoy A Summer Vacay Without Breaking The Bank
If you're sticking to a budget this summer but want to have the usual fun in the sun, you don't necessarily have to skimp on what you want to enjoy. In fact, you wouldn't be alone with the smart move of saving those coins since, according to a recent survey, a large percentage of your peers are doing the same.
And if we want to talk specific numbers, almost 21% of respondents surveyed plan to spend $500 to $999 for their next summer vacation, while almost 27% plan to spend upwards of $2,000. Whether your budget is close to, more, or less, try these simple tips to create the perfect budget for your travel adventure in the coming months:
1. Keep it real with yourself about what you can actually afford and maximize that sum, no matter how small or large the amount.
Oftentimes, we might be influenced via social media to invest in grand luxurious vacations (as 50% of people under 40 "use social media as a source" for travel inspiration), but if you can't afford a 20-day jaunt around Europe, there are still many other good options to consider based on your budget. Once you've set a number, figure out how you can stretch your dollars or save on some aspect of your trip.
For example, if you're going to be exploring a city (or two) for most of the daytime hours during your trip, why splurge on a luxury hotel? Find vacation rentals that offer luxury touches (via the decor or extras offered during your stay) or use perks offered via credit cards, memberships, sites like LivingSocial, or hotel loyalty programs.
If a luxury stay is your thing, join a Facebook or other online group on their trip or link up with your girls or favorite family members, instead of going solo. You can split the costs, take advantage of payment plans, and really maximize how you're spending money on your vacation.
When settling on a number based on what you can afford in consideration of your income, living expenses, and debt, be sure to include a limit on how much you'll spend on each aspect of the trip---including boundaries on actual cash you'll spend while there---and stick to it.
2. Do your research on your dream destination and watch how and where the locals eat, enjoy their leisure time, or spend their money.
One thing I've learned after practically moving to a place where I was once just a tourist is that watching how the locals live can save you time and money when planning a vacation. Follow a few travel creatives and professionals in that locality and take note of the areas, attractions, and other aspects of your trip that might align with the content they share. Typically locals not only know the spots that are off the beaten path, but they also know where and how to save a few coins while having fun in their communities.
It's great to follow and be inspired by U.S.-based travelers, but some are simply following trends that are, to be frank, quite expensive to keep up with, or they're sharing content via all-expenses-paid opportunities to market a place or experience in exchange for their influence or audience.
Travel enthusiasts, tour companies, and other professionals actually based where you want to vacation can offer clues as to how to have a good time without breaking the bank, and even if their content doesn't specifically force-feed you cookie-cutter itineraries, you can still take note of the places they visit on a regular day (or the nearby destinations where they vacation) and do a little online digging for yourself to create an affordable itinerary that works for you.
I've found off-the-beaten-path beaches, rivers, and entertainment options that are not swamped with tourists (and thus, are less pricey but just as spectacular, if not more) by doing this---simply vacationing as the locals do.
LeoPatrizi/Getty Images
3. Skip the DIY approach, and book via a travel agent or consultant.
This is one of the best ways to stay on budget when planning a vacation, since, at the onset, it's something you establish with the professional in order for them to be able to do their job. Once you've locked in how much you're willing to spend, they can use their savvy to fill in the blanks with amazing experiences that you might not be aware exists and use their contacts, experience, and industry know-how to get you deals to make your dream trip a reality.
If you can find an agent who works from commissions, you've hit the jackpot, but sometimes, even if you have to pay a service or planning fee, it can be worth it depending on the scope and length of your vacation. The best way to find a reputable travel agent is through referrals from family, friends, or online travel groups or by ensuring they have the proper certifications and asking lots of questions before agreeing to work with them. If they work for a reputable, well-known agency, that's even better.
Source: RgStudio/Getty Images
4. Ignore the negative hype and simply book your trip for the off-season.
Just because it's so-called "low season" in a destination doesn't mean it's not a great opportunity for the best summer vacation of your life. With global warming and so many other factors shifting what affects a good time during vacation, be open to visiting a destination that might not have made the list of top summer spots but suits your needs just as well.
For example, you can travel to places like Cabo San Lucas during "low season" and still have a lot of fun while the tourist rush has slowed, hotels offer lower room rates, and more options are activities and excursions available to book at competitive prices. While it might be a bit chilly at night, you can still enjoy poolside cocktails, beach club day parties, and cultural experiences during the day and wear light layers at night for phenomenal sunsets and other evening activities. Flights are typically cheaper as well during some low seasons depending on where you're flying to and from.
Staycations are also a great idea when it's not peak season since you can enjoy the paradise that's just a city or state away without others crowding the roads, beaches, and other attractions because they've traveled out of town to do so.
You don't have to give up your desire to enjoy the summer vacation you deserve just because you're sticking to a budget. With these tips, there are so many options to make the most of your hard-earned dollars without compromising on quality and experience.
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Featured image by Meeko Media/Getty Images